Another blast has been reported in a mosque in Afghanistan. A bomb went off in Nangarhar province during Friday prayers, three dead and 35 people have been reported as injured. WION's Anas Malick brings in all the latest developments.

Three killed, 35 injured during blast at a mosque in Afghanistan's Nangarhar province

After India hosted NSA-level talks on Afghanistan and reiterated support for a peaceful resolution in the crisis-hit country, the Taliban government have called to establish economic and diplomatic relations with New Delhi. WION's Anas Mallick in an exclusive conversation with Taliban's spokesperson Imanallah Samangani.

'Have noted Delhi summit positively,' says Taliban deputy spokesperson Imanallah Samangani

Another blast has been reported in a mosque in Afghanistan. A bomb went off in Nangarhar province during Friday prayers, 35 people have been reported as injured. WION's Anas Malick brings in all the latest developments.

Afghanistan: Blast hits mosque in Nangarhar province, 35 people reported injured

The latest Congressional report on Afghanistan has revealed that Pakistan has for a long period played an active role in Afghan affairs. The report accuses Pakistan of playing a "disruptive and destabilising" role in offering support to the Taliban.&nbsp;

"Pakistan has long played an active and, by many accounts, disruptive and destabilising role in Afghan affairs, including through the provision of active and passive support to the Taliban. Many observers see the Taliban's takeover (of Afghanistan) as a substantive triumph for Pakistan, bolstering its influence in Afghanistan and advancing its decades-long efforts to limit Indian influence there," the report read.&nbsp;

Prepared by independent subject area experts, the bipartisan Congressional Research Service said that if other countries such as Pakistan, Russia, China, or US partners such as Qatar begin to accept the Taliban, it could lead to the isolation of US.

This could further weaken its leverage and give the Taliban greater opportunities to evade US pressure.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-and-local-taliban-terror-group-on-road-to-peace-agree-to-one-month-ceasefire-427875">Also read |&nbsp;Pakistan and local Taliban terror group on road to peace; agree to one-month ceasefire</a>

Pakistani officials have claimed that their influence over the Taliban is 'limited.'&nbsp;

"More broadly, despite some implicitly pro-Taliban statements from top Pakistani officials, the Taliban's takeover may present challenges and complications for Pakistan," states the report.

The report further highlights how the acceptance of the Taliban could pose serious challenges for US policymakers.

"A less oppositional US approach towards the Taliban could allow for greater US access to, and perhaps influence over, the group and events in Afghanistan. Engagement with a Taliban government that acts in support of some US interests and against others could compel US policymakers to weigh and prioritise those interests, posing a difficult challenge," the report said.

The Taliban took control of Afghanistan in August after the withdrawal of American forces which started on May 1.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

The latest Congressional report on Afghanistan has revealed that Pakistan has for a long period played an active role in Afghan affairs. The report accuses Pakistan of playing a "disruptive and destabilising" role in offering support to the Taliban.

The latest Congressional report on Afghanistan has revealed that Pakistan has for a long period played an active role in Afghan affairs. The report accuses Pakistan of playing a "disruptive and destabilising" role in offering support to the Taliban. "Pakistan has long played an active and, by many accounts, disruptive and destabilising role in Afghan affairs, including through the provision of active and passive support to the Taliban. Many observers see the Taliban's takeover (of Afghanistan) as a substantive triumph for Pakistan, bolstering its influence in Afghanistan and advancing its decades-long efforts to limit Indian influence there," the report read. Prepared by independent subject area experts, the bipartisan Congressional Research Service said that if other countries such as Pakistan, Russia, China, or US partners such as Qatar begin to accept the Taliban, it could lead to the isolation of US. This could further weaken its leverage and give the Taliban greater opportunities to evade US pressure. Also read | Pakistan and local Taliban terror group on road to peace; agree to one-month ceasefire Pakistani officials have claimed that their influence over the Taliban is 'limited.' "More broadly, despite some implicitly pro-Taliban statements from top Pakistani officials, the Taliban's takeover may present challenges and complications for Pakistan," states the report. The report further highlights how the acceptance of the Taliban could pose serious challenges for US policymakers. "A less oppositional US approach towards the Taliban could allow for greater US access to, and perhaps influence over, the group and events in Afghanistan. Engagement with a Taliban government that acts in support of some US interests and against others could compel US policymakers to weigh and prioritise those interests, posing a difficult challenge," the report said. The Taliban took control of Afghanistan in August after the withdrawal of American forces which started on May 1. (With inputs from agencies)

US Congress report accuses Pakistan of playing 'disruptive and destabilising' role in Afghan affairs

India on Thursday slammed Pakistan for skipping the NSA-level summit to discuss on the Afghanistan situation which was hosted in New Delhi.

Briefing reporters, External Affairs Ministry spokesperson Arindam Bagchi lamented about China and Pakistan’s lack of participation in the security dialogue.

“We had invited China for NSA talks, but due to scheduling, they couldn't come… Rest where they go and what do they do, I don’t want to talk about that. We had invited Pakistan too, but they didn’t come to such an important meeting. This shows their attitude towards the Afghanistan issue,” he said.

India’s categorical statement comes days after China and Pakistan refused to meet for the dialogue.

China had said that it won’t be attending the meeting due to “scheduling reasons”, while Pakistan outrightly declined to attend the meet.

Seven countries took part in the dialogue. They are: Iran, Kazakhstan, the Kyrgyz Republic, Russia, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan.

Islamabad is currently hosting ‘Troika Plus’ meeting to discuss the Afghanistan issue, which is being attended by diplomats from Russia, China and US.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/afghan-humanitarian-crisis-dominates-discussion-between-nsa-doval-his-tajik-uzbek-counterparts-428118">Afghan humanitarian crisis dominates discussion between NSA Doval &amp; his Tajik, Uzbek counterparts</a>

Talking about providing humanitarian assistance to Afghanistan, Bagchi said that India was ready to provide any assistance, provided there is an “unimpeded access” to the country.

“India's support to the people of Afghanistan is very clear. We have been extending support over many years to all the people of Afghanistan. The situation on the ground has become very difficult over the last few months,” he said.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-declaration-on-afghanistan-calls-for-inclusive-government-rights-of-women-minorities-428234">Delhi declaration on Afghanistan calls for inclusive government, rights of women, minorities</a>

“Accordingly, we have been participating in meetings over this issue of how to address impending humanitarian concerns. In the NSA meeting, the very serious humanitarian situation in Afghanistan was discussed at length,” he added.

The official said that this issue was discussed during the NSA meet, where all other participants concurred that “unimpeded and unhindered” access was prerequisite for humanitarian assistance.

“One of the key elements which we've seen in previous meetings was the need for unimpeded, unhindered access for humanitarian assistance providers...There have been difficulties due to lack of unimpeded access,” Bagchi said.

India on Thursday slammed Pakistan for skipping the NSA-level summit to discuss on the Afghanistan situation which was hosted in New Delhi. Briefing reporters, External Affairs Ministry spokesperson Arindam Bagchi lamented about China and Pakistan’s lack of participation in the security dialogue.

India on Thursday slammed Pakistan for skipping the NSA-level summit to discuss on the Afghanistan situation which was hosted in New Delhi. Briefing reporters, External Affairs Ministry spokesperson Arindam Bagchi lamented about China and Pakistan’s lack of participation in the security dialogue. “We had invited China for NSA talks, but due to scheduling, they couldn't come… Rest where they go and what do they do, I don’t want to talk about that. We had invited Pakistan too, but they didn’t come to such an important meeting. This shows their attitude towards the Afghanistan issue,” he said. India’s categorical statement comes days after China and Pakistan refused to meet for the dialogue. China had said that it won’t be attending the meeting due to “scheduling reasons”, while Pakistan outrightly declined to attend the meet. Seven countries took part in the dialogue. They are: Iran, Kazakhstan, the Kyrgyz Republic, Russia, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan. Islamabad is currently hosting ‘Troika Plus’ meeting to discuss the Afghanistan issue, which is being attended by diplomats from Russia, China and US. Also read | Afghan humanitarian crisis dominates discussion between NSA Doval & his Tajik, Uzbek counterparts Talking about providing humanitarian assistance to Afghanistan, Bagchi said that India was ready to provide any assistance, provided there is an “unimpeded access” to the country. “India's support to the people of Afghanistan is very clear. We have been extending support over many years to all the people of Afghanistan. The situation on the ground has become very difficult over the last few months,” he said. Also read | Delhi declaration on Afghanistan calls for inclusive government, rights of women, minorities “Accordingly, we have been participating in meetings over this issue of how to address impending humanitarian concerns. In the NSA meeting, the very serious humanitarian situation in Afghanistan was discussed at length,” he added. The official said that this issue was discussed during the NSA meet, where all other participants concurred that “unimpeded and unhindered” access was prerequisite for humanitarian assistance. “One of the key elements which we've seen in previous meetings was the need for unimpeded, unhindered access for humanitarian assistance providers...There have been difficulties due to lack of unimpeded access,” Bagchi said.

‘Shows their attitude’: India slams Pak for skipping NSA meet on Afghanistan issue

Polio has been virtually eliminated globally through a decades-long inoculation drive. The World Health Organization and the United Nations children's agency kicked off a polio vaccination campaign in Afghanistan on Monday, the first nationwide campaign to fight the disease in three years.

WHO, UNICEF launch polio campaign in Afghanistan

Potential Al Qaeda and with the Taliban steamrolling across Afghanistan resurgence in Afghanistan raise concern among U.S. officials.

United States: Worried About Increase in Attacks by ISIS-K in Afghanistan

India's National Security Adviser Ajit Doval chaired a security dialogue on Afghanistan with NSAs of 7 Central Asian nations. Pakistan & China skipped the meeting, only to host their own dialogue in Islamabad. What message are they trying to send? Palki Sharma decodes.

Gravitas: India hosts 7 NSAs for Security Dialogue on Afghanistan

Former Afghanistan's all-rounder Mirwais Ashraf has been appointed as the acting chairman of the Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB) on Wednesday (November 10) to replace Azizullah Fazli, who was in charge for two months.

Former Afghanistan's all-rounder Mirwais Ashraf has been appointed as the acting chairman of the Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB) on Wednesday (November 10) to replace Azizullah Fazli, who was in charge for two months. An official statement on the Twitter handle of Afghanistan's cricket read, "The prime minister of the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan has appointed Mirwais Ashraf as acting chairman of the Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB)." As per local media reports, the decision was taken after demands by national players while meeting Taliban officials in Abu Dhabi during the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2021. ALSO READ | As Australia-Afghanistan Test gets postponed, ANOC's spokesperson sheds light on women athletes' future After the Taliban rapidly seized control of Afghanistan this year in August and the US forces withdrew after 20 years in the country, the status of the participation of women in sports remains uncertain. However, Taliban officials have said they will not repeat the harsh rule of their previous government, which banned most girls' education and forbade women from going out in public without a male guardian. Recently, Cricket Australia (CA) confirmed on Friday (November 5) it has postponed the Afghanistan Test in Hobart scheduled for November 27 until the situation regarding the women's game in the South Asian nation becomes clearer. CA had said in September it would scrap the test if the Taliban government, which took power in August, did not allow women and girls to play the sport. ALSO READ | Virat Kohli as captain: A tale of sugar and spice and everything nice "Following extensive consultation with relevant stakeholders, Cricket Australia and the Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB) have agreed to postpone the inaugural men's test match against Afghanistan," CA said in a statement. "CA is committed to support growing the game for women and men in Afghanistan and around the world, however, given the present uncertainty, CA felt it necessary to postpone the test match until a later time when the situation is clearer." The ACB said the postponement followed an "agreement between the boards". The International Cricket Council - which has rules stating all member countries should have both men's and women's teams - has been cautious, saying it will discuss the matter in a board meeting later this month. Still, the ACB announced its team will tour Zimbabwe for three one-day internationals and three Twenty20 internationals next month. The dates of the matches are yet to be finalised. (With inputs from agencies)

Afghanistan's former all-rounder Mirwais Ashraf appointed as new cricket chief

Afghanistan's acting foreign minister Amir Khan Muttaqi has arrived in Pakistan for bilateral talks and will also attend the Troika plus meeting on Afghanistan, this is the first visit of the Taliban minister to Pakistan. Senior officials from the US, Russia and China are also a part of the meet.

Pakistan holds Troika plus meeting, another attempt by Pakistan to garner recognition for Taliban?

The NSA of Iran, Russia and five central Asian countries have held security talks in India's capital New Delhi. Top security officials reiterated their support for a peaceful and stable Afghanistan, expressed concern over the security situation in the country and condemned the attacks.

India hosts Afghan security meet, here are key takeaways from Delhi declaration

India: Afghanistan security dialogue concludes, emphasis on terrorism, humanitarian assistance

Pakistan to host Troika plus meet, focus on achieving lasting peace in Afghanistan

NSA level meeting with 7 countries concludes, calls for open and inclusive Afghanistan government

The Delhi Declaration on Afghanistan released after the National security advisors (NSAs) meet has called for an inclusive government in Kabul and upholding the "fundamental rights" of women, children, and minority communities. NSAs of seven&nbsp;countries,&nbsp;the five&nbsp;Central Asian countries, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan, Iran, and Russia took part in the event hosted by India.

The Declaration said that the countries "stressed the necessity of forming an open and truly inclusive government" that represents the "will of all the people of Afghanistan and has representation from all sections of their society, including major ethnopolitical forces in the country."

It further highlighted that "Inclusion of all sections of the society in the administrative and political structure is imperative for the successful national reconciliation process in the country."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/afghan-humanitarian-crisis-dominates-discussion-between-nsa-doval-his-tajik-uzbek-counterparts-428118" hreflang="en">Afghan humanitarian crisis dominates discussion during NSA meet</a>

Taliban, since the takeover of the country announced a government, which was dominated by the group and had no representation from minorities like the Hazaras. The government also had no representation from women and of over 30 members in the cabinet, around 17 are on the United Nations list of sanctioned terrorists.

A considerable portion was on the issue of the threat of terrorism emanating from the country. The joint statement "emphasised that Afghanistan’s territory should not be used for sheltering, training, planning or financing any terrorist acts."

The countries which participated at the meet have called for a "collective cooperation" against the "menace of radicalisation, extremism, separatism and drug trafficking in the region.". Central Asian countries, especially those who share a land border with Afghanistan, like Tajikistan and Uzbekistan are worried over a spillover into their territory. &nbsp;

Also see |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/dont-politicise-education-and-right-to-work-afghan-women-protest-against-taliban-government-422880" hreflang="en">'Don't politicise education and right to work:' Afghan women protest against Taliban government</a>

The focus was also on humanitarian support to the country and the need to " provide urgent humanitarian assistance to the people of Afghanistan." With the onset of winter, and the Taliban government not doing essential food stockpiling fears of a major humanitarian crisis is looming in the country with many on the brink of starvation.

Interestingly, the statement mentioned that humanitarian assistance should be provided in an "unimpeded, direct and assured manner to Afghanistan" and that the "assistance is distributed within the country in a non-discriminatory manner across all sections of the Afghan society.". India has proposed to send assistance to Afghanistan via Pakistan but the country hasn't responded to New Delhi's request.

This is the second such statement being issued on Afghanistan under Indian leadership. In August, under the Indian presidency of the United Nations Security Council, a resolution was adopted. &nbsp;

The visiting NSAs participated in the regional security dialogue earlier in the day and issued statements. NSA Ajit Doval in his remarks said, "developments in (Afghanistan)...have important implications not only for the people of Afghanistan but also for its neighbours and the region.

This is the time for close consultation amongst us, greater cooperation and interaction and coordination among the regional countries."

The NSAs also called on Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

&nbsp;

The Delhi Declaration on Afghanistan released after the National security advisors (NSAs) meet has called for an inclusive government in Kabul and upholding the "fundamental rights" of women, children, and minority communities.

The Delhi Declaration on Afghanistan released after the National security advisors (NSAs) meet has called for an inclusive government in Kabul and upholding the "fundamental rights" of women, children, and minority communities. NSAs of seven countries, the five Central Asian countries, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan, Iran, and Russia took part in the event hosted by India. The Declaration said that the countries "stressed the necessity of forming an open and truly inclusive government" that represents the "will of all the people of Afghanistan and has representation from all sections of their society, including major ethnopolitical forces in the country." It further highlighted that "Inclusion of all sections of the society in the administrative and political structure is imperative for the successful national reconciliation process in the country." Also read | Afghan humanitarian crisis dominates discussion during NSA meet Taliban, since the takeover of the country announced a government, which was dominated by the group and had no representation from minorities like the Hazaras. The government also had no representation from women and of over 30 members in the cabinet, around 17 are on the United Nations list of sanctioned terrorists. A considerable portion was on the issue of the threat of terrorism emanating from the country. The joint statement "emphasised that Afghanistan’s territory should not be used for sheltering, training, planning or financing any terrorist acts." The countries which participated at the meet have called for a "collective cooperation" against the "menace of radicalisation, extremism, separatism and drug trafficking in the region.". Central Asian countries, especially those who share a land border with Afghanistan, like Tajikistan and Uzbekistan are worried over a spillover into their territory. Also see | 'Don't politicise education and right to work:' Afghan women protest against Taliban government The focus was also on humanitarian support to the country and the need to " provide urgent humanitarian assistance to the people of Afghanistan." With the onset of winter, and the Taliban government not doing essential food stockpiling fears of a major humanitarian crisis is looming in the country with many on the brink of starvation. Interestingly, the statement mentioned that humanitarian assistance should be provided in an "unimpeded, direct and assured manner to Afghanistan" and that the "assistance is distributed within the country in a non-discriminatory manner across all sections of the Afghan society.". India has proposed to send assistance to Afghanistan via Pakistan but the country hasn't responded to New Delhi's request. This is the second such statement being issued on Afghanistan under Indian leadership. In August, under the Indian presidency of the United Nations Security Council, a resolution was adopted. The visiting NSAs participated in the regional security dialogue earlier in the day and issued statements. NSA Ajit Doval in his remarks said, "developments in (Afghanistan)...have important implications not only for the people of Afghanistan but also for its neighbours and the region. This is the time for close consultation amongst us, greater cooperation and interaction and coordination among the regional countries." The NSAs also called on Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Delhi declaration on Afghanistan calls for inclusive government, rights of women, minorities

Afghanistan's acting foreign minister Amir Khan Muttaqi will visit Pakistan today to hold bilateral talks and attend the Troika plus meeting on Afghanistan, this is the first visit of the Taliban minister to Pakistan.

Afghanistan foreign minister Amir Khan Muttaqi in Pakistan to attend Troika plus meeting

India is hosting a high-level dialogue on the security situation in Afghanistan. 7 Central Asian countries are attending, but Pakistan and China have decided to give the meeting a miss. Is it because the two countries want to cash in on the crisis in Kabul? Palki Sharma brings you a report.

Gravitas: India to host high-level security dialogue on Afghanistan

India is looking forward to hosting a regional security dialogue on the Afghanistan situation on Wednesday. The meeting will be attended by top security officials from seven nations, the indian NSA Ajit Doval will chair the meeting. Siddhant Sibbal and Anas Mallick bring you more on this.

Afghanistan security dialogue in New Delhi, Indian NSA Ajit Doval to chair meet

The bitter battle for power within the Taliban is out in the open. The Haqqanis tried to attempt a "coup" at the Afghanistan Cricket Board. Reports say armed supports of Mullah Baradar stormed the office & beat up officials. Molly Gambhir has more.

Gravitas | Haqqanis "fail" in their attempt to takeover Afghan Cricket Board

Last month, the family of Mawlavi Ezzatullah, a member of Afghanistan`s Hizb-e Islami party, received a WhatsApp message from his phone: "We have slaughtered your Mawlavi Ezzat, come and collect his body." 
 
Ezzatullah's killing, in the eastern province of Nangarhar, was one of a steady stream of assassinations and bombings that have undermined Taliban claims that they have brought greater security to Afghanistan after 40 years of war. 
 
Victims have ranged from former security officials from the ousted government to journalists, civil society activists, mullahs, Taliban fighters and apparently random targets like Ezzatullah, whose family said he had no enemies they knew of. 
 
The Taliban have said their victory has brought stability to Afghanistan, where thousands of people were killed in fighting between the group and Western-backed forces between 2001 and 2021 before the hardline Islamists emerged victorious. 
 
But on just one day last week, pictures from Jalalabad - the provincial capital of Nangarhar - appeared online showing two bodies swinging from a rope. Residents also reported a mullah`s murder and video footage was circulated of a group of gunmen firing into a car, apparently killing its occupants, one of whom was identified by local journalists as a Taliban official. 
 
Reuters was unable to verify the images and footage independently. 
 
On Sunday, according to locals, three bodies were brought into a hospital in Jalalabad after a roadside bomb explosion that apparently targeted Taliban fighters in a pickup truck. 
 
Later that day, gunmen shot a former Afghan army soldier in front of his house, killing him and two friends standing nearby. 
 
The Taliban have downplayed such incidents, saying that after decades of war, it will take time for the country to be completely pacified. 
 
"There are 34 provinces in the country and in a week, 20 cases will be prevented for every one that takes place," said spokesman Bilal Karimi. "We have had 20 years of revolution and invasion and the level of these incidents will go down." 
 
Some former soldiers and intelligence officers from the ousted government blame members of the Taliban for targeting them since taking over. The group has promised there would be no reprisals, but accepts rogue fighters may have acted alone. 
 
Many targeted killings remain unclaimed and some may be the result of local vendettas. 
 
But others look the result of increasingly open conflict between the Taliban and a local affiliate of Islamic State, a development which the new U.S. Special Representative for Afghanistan, Tom West, said on Monday was causing concern&nbsp;in Washington. 
 
The militant jihadi group has claimed some of the deadliest attacks in Afghanistan in recent months in which hundreds of people have been killed, mainly in big cities. 
 
"They are trying to undermine and discredit the Taliban Emirate. The Emirate promised security and they`re trying to show they can`t deliver it," said Antonio Giustozzi, a specialist in jihadi groups from the Royal United Services Institute in London. 
 
He said Islamic State, which he estimated to have around 4,000 fighters, had been carrying out a campaign of targeted killings since around the summer of 2020 and had continued since the Taliban victory in August on a "roughly comparable scale". 
 
`BIDEN HIRELINGS` 
 
For many going about their business, the violence feels particularly menacing. 
 
"I have never been as terrified as I am now," said a university professor in Nangarhar who has also worked as a journalist and who spoke on condition of anonymity for fear of being targeted. He described events in Nangarhar as "total chaos." 
 
The violence has fuelled fears that Afghanistan could collapse into anarchy and even return to a new phase of civil war, creating a haven for militant groups to launch attacks in neighbouring countries and the West. 
 
"This is the scenario that has everyone worried," said one Western official with long experience of the region. 
 
Islamic State, which first appeared in Afghanistan in late 2014 and adopted the title Islamic State Khorasan after an ancient name for the region, has been trying to recover from a bruising series of defeats in 2018 and 2019. 
 
The group has claimed a series of strikes against Shi`ite mosques and other targets since the Taliban`s victory in August, most recently on the main military hospital in Kabul which killed at least 25 people. 
 
Less commonly reported are frequent, smaller atrocities which have been taking place not only in Nangarhar, long a stronghold of Islamic State. 
 
Areas affected include Ghazni in central Afghanistan, Herat in the west, Balkh in the north, and Paktia, Paktika and Khost in the southeast. 
 
"The Taliban militia are lost in panic, they do not know how to conceal their shame," an Islamic State video posted on the group`s Telegram channel on Sunday said, accusing the Taliban of being "Biden hirelings". 
 
As an insurgency the Taliban proved an effective and cohesive fighting force. Keeping the peace in a country in crisis presents fresh challenges, including uniting different factions, values and norms within the movement. 
 
Giustozzi, who wrote a book on Islamic State in Afghanistan, said the group, which had retreated into remote strongholds in the east and northeast of the country, was trying to hit the Taliban while the group is still grappling with the transition from insurgency to government. 
 
"They know that if they allow the Taliban Emirate to consolidate, next spring the Taliban will move to destroy them," he said.

Last month, the family of Mawlavi Ezzatullah, a member of Afghanistan`s Hizb-e Islami party, received a WhatsApp message from his phone: "We have slaughtered your Mawlavi Ezzat, come and collect his body.

Last month, the family of Mawlavi Ezzatullah, a member of Afghanistan`s Hizb-e Islami party, received a WhatsApp message from his phone: "We have slaughtered your Mawlavi Ezzat, come and collect his body." Ezzatullah's killing, in the eastern province of Nangarhar, was one of a steady stream of assassinations and bombings that have undermined Taliban claims that they have brought greater security to Afghanistan after 40 years of war. Victims have ranged from former security officials from the ousted government to journalists, civil society activists, mullahs, Taliban fighters and apparently random targets like Ezzatullah, whose family said he had no enemies they knew of. The Taliban have said their victory has brought stability to Afghanistan, where thousands of people were killed in fighting between the group and Western-backed forces between 2001 and 2021 before the hardline Islamists emerged victorious. But on just one day last week, pictures from Jalalabad - the provincial capital of Nangarhar - appeared online showing two bodies swinging from a rope. Residents also reported a mullah`s murder and video footage was circulated of a group of gunmen firing into a car, apparently killing its occupants, one of whom was identified by local journalists as a Taliban official. Reuters was unable to verify the images and footage independently. On Sunday, according to locals, three bodies were brought into a hospital in Jalalabad after a roadside bomb explosion that apparently targeted Taliban fighters in a pickup truck. Later that day, gunmen shot a former Afghan army soldier in front of his house, killing him and two friends standing nearby. The Taliban have downplayed such incidents, saying that after decades of war, it will take time for the country to be completely pacified. "There are 34 provinces in the country and in a week, 20 cases will be prevented for every one that takes place," said spokesman Bilal Karimi. "We have had 20 years of revolution and invasion and the level of these incidents will go down." Some former soldiers and intelligence officers from the ousted government blame members of the Taliban for targeting them since taking over. The group has promised there would be no reprisals, but accepts rogue fighters may have acted alone. Many targeted killings remain unclaimed and some may be the result of local vendettas. But others look the result of increasingly open conflict between the Taliban and a local affiliate of Islamic State, a development which the new U.S. Special Representative for Afghanistan, Tom West, said on Monday was causing concern in Washington. The militant jihadi group has claimed some of the deadliest attacks in Afghanistan in recent months in which hundreds of people have been killed, mainly in big cities. "They are trying to undermine and discredit the Taliban Emirate. The Emirate promised security and they`re trying to show they can`t deliver it," said Antonio Giustozzi, a specialist in jihadi groups from the Royal United Services Institute in London. He said Islamic State, which he estimated to have around 4,000 fighters, had been carrying out a campaign of targeted killings since around the summer of 2020 and had continued since the Taliban victory in August on a "roughly comparable scale". `BIDEN HIRELINGS` For many going about their business, the violence feels particularly menacing. "I have never been as terrified as I am now," said a university professor in Nangarhar who has also worked as a journalist and who spoke on condition of anonymity for fear of being targeted. He described events in Nangarhar as "total chaos." The violence has fuelled fears that Afghanistan could collapse into anarchy and even return to a new phase of civil war, creating a haven for militant groups to launch attacks in neighbouring countries and the West. "This is the scenario that has everyone worried," said one Western official with long experience of the region. Islamic State, which first appeared in Afghanistan in late 2014 and adopted the title Islamic State Khorasan after an ancient name for the region, has been trying to recover from a bruising series of defeats in 2018 and 2019. The group has claimed a series of strikes against Shi`ite mosques and other targets since the Taliban`s victory in August, most recently on the main military hospital in Kabul which killed at least 25 people. Less commonly reported are frequent, smaller atrocities which have been taking place not only in Nangarhar, long a stronghold of Islamic State. Areas affected include Ghazni in central Afghanistan, Herat in the west, Balkh in the north, and Paktia, Paktika and Khost in the southeast. "The Taliban militia are lost in panic, they do not know how to conceal their shame," an Islamic State video posted on the group`s Telegram channel on Sunday said, accusing the Taliban of being "Biden hirelings". As an insurgency the Taliban proved an effective and cohesive fighting force. Keeping the peace in a country in crisis presents fresh challenges, including uniting different factions, values and norms within the movement. Giustozzi, who wrote a book on Islamic State in Afghanistan, said the group, which had retreated into remote strongholds in the east and northeast of the country, was trying to hit the Taliban while the group is still grappling with the transition from insurgency to government. "They know that if they allow the Taliban Emirate to consolidate, next spring the Taliban will move to destroy them," he said.

Safe and stable Afghanistan: Recent Islamic state violence dents Taliban claims

The new US special representative for Afghanistan, Thomas West, has stated that he plans on visiting India as a part of his ongoing trip. "I look forward to advancing America’s vital interests and supporting the Afghan people," West wrote on Twitter.&nbsp;

The first stop of his trip is Brussels, where he aims at consulting with Allies and partners.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
An honor to be in Brussels today to consult with Allies and the EU on the way forward in Afghanistan. Visited <a href="https://twitter.com/NATO?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@NATO</a> HQ’s 9/11 memorial and recalled Allies’ historic invocation of Article V. <a href="https://t.co/C31nwMbEpQ">pic.twitter.com/C31nwMbEpQ</a>
— U.S. Special Representative Thomas West (@US4AfghanPeace) <a href="https://twitter.com/US4AfghanPeace/status/1457785730097311749?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 8, 2021</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
1/2 It is an honor to assume the role of U.S. Special Representative for Afghanistan. I look forward to advancing America’s vital interests and supporting the Afghan people. <a href="https://t.co/o8Q9orMBU0">https://t.co/o8Q9orMBU0</a>
— U.S. Special Representative Thomas West (@US4AfghanPeace) <a href="https://twitter.com/US4AfghanPeace/status/1457515834683924487?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 8, 2021</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

During a press conference, US State Department spokesperson Ned Price revealed that West will also visit Russia and Pakistan. Price said, "Together with our partners, he will continue to make clear the expectations that we have of the Taliban and of any future Afghanistan government."

He further said that at Brussels, West had an opportunity to meet with the NAC. "He also engaged in a press call earlier this morning," Price added.

When asked if West will be visiting Afghanistan, the State Spokesperson replied: "There are no plans to do that."

In October, West became the new US ambassador to Afghanistan after replacing Zalmay Khalilzad.&nbsp;The former ambassador stepped down less than two months after the chaotic US departure from Afghanistan and Taliban control of the nation.

Secretary of State Antony Blinken said in a statement that Khalilzad will be replaced by his deputy, Tom West. He further informed that West will work closely with the US embassy, which is currently situated in Doha, on US interests in Afghanistan.&nbsp;

The new US special representative for Afghanistan, Thomas West, has stated that he plans on visiting India as a part of his ongoing trip. "I look forward to advancing America’s vital interests and supporting the Afghan people," West wrote on Twitter.

The new US special representative for Afghanistan, Thomas West, has stated that he plans on visiting India as a part of his ongoing trip. "I look forward to advancing America’s vital interests and supporting the Afghan people," West wrote on Twitter. The first stop of his trip is Brussels, where he aims at consulting with Allies and partners. An honor to be in Brussels today to consult with Allies and the EU on the way forward in Afghanistan. Visited @NATO HQ’s 9/11 memorial and recalled Allies’ historic invocation of Article V. pic.twitter.com/C31nwMbEpQ — U.S. Special Representative Thomas West (@US4AfghanPeace) November 8, 2021 × 1/2 It is an honor to assume the role of U.S. Special Representative for Afghanistan. I look forward to advancing America’s vital interests and supporting the Afghan people. https://t.co/o8Q9orMBU0 — U.S. Special Representative Thomas West (@US4AfghanPeace) November 8, 2021 × During a press conference, US State Department spokesperson Ned Price revealed that West will also visit Russia and Pakistan. Price said, "Together with our partners, he will continue to make clear the expectations that we have of the Taliban and of any future Afghanistan government." He further said that at Brussels, West had an opportunity to meet with the NAC. "He also engaged in a press call earlier this morning," Price added. When asked if West will be visiting Afghanistan, the State Spokesperson replied: "There are no plans to do that." In October, West became the new US ambassador to Afghanistan after replacing Zalmay Khalilzad. The former ambassador stepped down less than two months after the chaotic US departure from Afghanistan and Taliban control of the nation. Secretary of State Antony Blinken said in a statement that Khalilzad will be replaced by his deputy, Tom West. He further informed that West will work closely with the US embassy, which is currently situated in Doha, on US interests in Afghanistan.

US envoy for Afghanistan to visit India as a part of his ongoing trip

China has decided to skip India's 'Delhi Regional Security Dialogue on Afghanistan', a meeting of national security advisers from the region.

The Chinese government said it would not be able to attend the conclave because of scheduling issues. However, the country has conveyed its readiness to maintain contacts with India on Afghanistan through bilateral and multilateral channels.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-looks-for-practical-outcomes-at-security-czars-meet-on-afghanistan-427797">India looks for practical outcomes at 'security czars' meet on Afghanistan</a>

Pakistan had also declined to attend the National Security Advisors meeting being hosted by India, and the country's NSA Moeed Yusuf was publicly quoted as describing India as a spoiler.

On Wednesday, 10th November,&nbsp;India will be hosting, security czars of Russia, Iran and five central Asian countries, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan, for security dialogue on Afghanistan.

Conclave participants will work to develop a common approach to practical cooperation in the face of growing threats from terrorism, radicalization, and drug trafficking following the Taliban takeover of Kabul.

The dialogue will be chaired by India's National Security Advisor (NSA) Ajit Doval.&nbsp;

Additionally, Doval will also hold bilateral talks with his counterparts, including those from Russia and Iran.

The participating countries, according to sources, are in very high agreement regarding the security implications of the Taliban seizing power in Afghanistan, and the focus of the dialogue will be on how to work together on practical matters.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/iran-russia-central-asia-confirm-presence-at-delhi-nsa-meet-on-afghanistan-426930">Iran, Russia, Central Asia confirm presence at Delhi NSA meet on Afghanistan</a>

The challenges posed by terrorism, radicalisation, drug trafficking, cross-border migration of people, and the threat posed by military weapons left behind by US forces will be discussed at length at the dialogue.

The security officials are also expected to discuss the cross-border movement of Afghans.

According to the MEA, India has enjoyed close and friendly relations with the people of Afghanistan and has called for a unified international response to tackle the security and humanitarian challenges Afghanistan faces.

"The forthcoming meeting is a step in that direction," it said.

Participants in the conference have not recognized the Taliban, and they all share similar concerns and worries about the situation in Afghanistan.

Watch |&nbsp;Iran, Russia confirm presence at Delhi NSA meet on Afghanistan

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/iran-russia-confirm-presence-at-delhi-nsa-meet-on-afghanistan-427030/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

While the meeting is unlikely to result in a formal security architecture, it may lead to a gradual evolution of increased security cooperation.

According to sources, Pakistan had also refused to attend previous dialogues of the NSAs in Iran in 2018 and 2019 citing India's participation.

China has decided to skip India's 'Delhi Regional Security Dialogue on Afghanistan', a meeting of national security advisers from the region. The Chinese government said it would not be able to attend the conclave because of scheduling issues.

China has decided to skip India's 'Delhi Regional Security Dialogue on Afghanistan', a meeting of national security advisers from the region. The Chinese government said it would not be able to attend the conclave because of scheduling issues. However, the country has conveyed its readiness to maintain contacts with India on Afghanistan through bilateral and multilateral channels. Also read | India looks for practical outcomes at 'security czars' meet on Afghanistan Pakistan had also declined to attend the National Security Advisors meeting being hosted by India, and the country's NSA Moeed Yusuf was publicly quoted as describing India as a spoiler. On Wednesday, 10th November, India will be hosting, security czars of Russia, Iran and five central Asian countries, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan, for security dialogue on Afghanistan. Conclave participants will work to develop a common approach to practical cooperation in the face of growing threats from terrorism, radicalization, and drug trafficking following the Taliban takeover of Kabul. The dialogue will be chaired by India's National Security Advisor (NSA) Ajit Doval. Additionally, Doval will also hold bilateral talks with his counterparts, including those from Russia and Iran. The participating countries, according to sources, are in very high agreement regarding the security implications of the Taliban seizing power in Afghanistan, and the focus of the dialogue will be on how to work together on practical matters. Also read | Iran, Russia, Central Asia confirm presence at Delhi NSA meet on Afghanistan The challenges posed by terrorism, radicalisation, drug trafficking, cross-border migration of people, and the threat posed by military weapons left behind by US forces will be discussed at length at the dialogue. The security officials are also expected to discuss the cross-border movement of Afghans. According to the MEA, India has enjoyed close and friendly relations with the people of Afghanistan and has called for a unified international response to tackle the security and humanitarian challenges Afghanistan faces. "The forthcoming meeting is a step in that direction," it said. Participants in the conference have not recognized the Taliban, and they all share similar concerns and worries about the situation in Afghanistan. Watch | Iran, Russia confirm presence at Delhi NSA meet on Afghanistan While the meeting is unlikely to result in a formal security architecture, it may lead to a gradual evolution of increased security cooperation. According to sources, Pakistan had also refused to attend previous dialogues of the NSAs in Iran in 2018 and 2019 citing India's participation.

After Pak, China NSA to also skip Delhi Regional Security Dialogue on Afghanistan hosted by India

While the Taliban regime is trying to portray a united front, the divide within is growing day by day, the rift between the Haqqanis and the Baradars refuse to die down. Amidst this, the new rulers of Afghanistan have announced key positions at the provincial level across Afghanistan.

Afghanistan: New provincial governors unveiled, rising internal threats for Taliban?

Since the Taliban take over Afghanistan, the country's highest revenue-garnering, the pine nut industry has also taken a hit. WION's Anas Mallick gets a ground report on why exporters of the country fear selling pine nuts at cheaper rates.

Afghan exporters fear selling pine nuts at cheaper prices: WION Ground Report

Residents of Kabul are worried about finding fuel this winter and are struggling to buy wood to keep their houses warm due to the rising prices. WION brings you a ground report from Afghanistan's capital city.

Kabul's wood crisis in winters: A WION ground report

A report by the UN food agency has revealed that as&nbsp;acute hunger spikes around the world,&nbsp;around 45 million people are living on the edge of famine in 43 countries.

Earlier this year, the World&nbsp;Food Programme (WFP) had pegged this number at 42 million. However, a&nbsp;recent assessment of food security found another three million people facing famine in Afghanistan.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/reports-of-famine-in-north-korea-as-bad-as-1990s-amid-mounting-food-insecurity-426894">Reports of famine in North Korea as bad as 1990s amid mounting food insecurity</a>

"Tens of millions of people are staring into an abyss. We've got conflict, climate change and COVID-19 driving up the numbers of the acutely hungry," WFP Executive Director David Beasley was quoted as saying.&nbsp;

After a visit to Afghanistan, where the World Food Program is increasing assistance to almost 23 million people, he said: "The latest data show there are now more than 45 million people marching towards the brink of starvation,".

"Fuel costs are up, food prices are soaring, fertiliser is more expensive, and all of this feeds into new crises like the one unfolding now in Afghanistan, as well as long-standing emergencies like Yemen and Syria," he added.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ill-donate-6-billion-if-the-un-can-prove-how-it-will-solve-world-hunger-elon-musk-425761">I'll donate $6 billion if the UN can prove how it will solve world hunger: Elon Musk</a>

It is now estimated that to avert the famine worldwide, seven billion dollars are needed, up from the estimated 6.6 billion earlier in the year. However, the WFP warns that traditional funding streams are overstretched.

The food insecurity in some areas is causing parents to make devastating choices like marrying off their children early, pulling them out of school, or feeding them locusts, wild leaves, or cactus.

"Meanwhile media reports from Afghanistan point to families reportedly being forced to sell their children in a desperate attempt to survive," it said.

Watch |&nbsp;Afghanistan inches closer to famine as winters approach

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/afghanistan-inches-closer-to-famine-as-winters-approach-420848/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Several droughts in Afghanistan were compounding an economic meltdown, pushing families to the edge.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, 12.4 million Syrians have no idea where their next meal will come from. According to the report, this is the highest number in the Syrian conflict's decade-long history.

In addition, Ethiopia, Haiti, Somalia, Angola, Kenya, and Burundi, have also witnessed an increase in acute hunger, reports the agency.

A report by the UN food agency has revealed that as acute hunger spikes around the world, around 45 million people are living on the edge of famine in 43 countries.

A report by the UN food agency has revealed that as acute hunger spikes around the world, around 45 million people are living on the edge of famine in 43 countries. Earlier this year, the World Food Programme (WFP) had pegged this number at 42 million. However, a recent assessment of food security found another three million people facing famine in Afghanistan. Also read | Reports of famine in North Korea as bad as 1990s amid mounting food insecurity "Tens of millions of people are staring into an abyss. We've got conflict, climate change and COVID-19 driving up the numbers of the acutely hungry," WFP Executive Director David Beasley was quoted as saying. After a visit to Afghanistan, where the World Food Program is increasing assistance to almost 23 million people, he said: "The latest data show there are now more than 45 million people marching towards the brink of starvation,". "Fuel costs are up, food prices are soaring, fertiliser is more expensive, and all of this feeds into new crises like the one unfolding now in Afghanistan, as well as long-standing emergencies like Yemen and Syria," he added. Also read | I'll donate $6 billion if the UN can prove how it will solve world hunger: Elon Musk It is now estimated that to avert the famine worldwide, seven billion dollars are needed, up from the estimated 6.6 billion earlier in the year. However, the WFP warns that traditional funding streams are overstretched. The food insecurity in some areas is causing parents to make devastating choices like marrying off their children early, pulling them out of school, or feeding them locusts, wild leaves, or cactus. "Meanwhile media reports from Afghanistan point to families reportedly being forced to sell their children in a desperate attempt to survive," it said. Watch | Afghanistan inches closer to famine as winters approach Several droughts in Afghanistan were compounding an economic meltdown, pushing families to the edge. Meanwhile, 12.4 million Syrians have no idea where their next meal will come from. According to the report, this is the highest number in the Syrian conflict's decade-long history. In addition, Ethiopia, Haiti, Somalia, Angola, Kenya, and Burundi, have also witnessed an increase in acute hunger, reports the agency.

'Staring into an abyss': UN says 3 million in Afghanistan, 45 million worldwide knocking at famine's door

The Taliban has appointed 44 of its members to key roles including provincial governors and police chiefs. It is the first large-scale round of appointments announced since the cabinet was formed in September. WION's Anas Mallick brings in more on this.

Taliban designate 44 governors, police chiefs; appointments dominated by Haqqani camp?

It's been nearly three months since the Taliban captured Kabul, in that time the group has taken over all of the Afghan institutions, they have elected their own acting cabinet and now in the latest Taliban has attempted an unsuccessful coup at Afghanistan's cricket board.

Sources: Afghan cricket board tweeted change of chairman, deletes hours after posting

As Kabul was falling to the Taliban in August, the young Afghan air force pilot flew his PC-12 turboprop from Afghanistan to neighbouring Tajikistan to escape. Like other Afghan officers who fled in dozens of military aircraft to Tajikistan and Uzbekistan, the pilot had faith that his American military partners would rescue him.

“We believed in the US military and government — that they would help us and get us out of this situation,” said the pilot, a lieutenant, who, like other pilots in this article, spoke on the condition of anonymity because of security concerns.

The lieutenant is among 143 Afghan pilots and crew members now detained by Tajik authorities. They are English speakers trained by the US Air Force, and they are counting on the US government or military to evacuate them and also to help evacuate their families back home in Afghanistan.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghan-crisis-amid-internal-conflict-and-terrorism-locals-struggle-to-get-drinking-water-427287" hreflang="en">Afghan crisis: Amid internal conflict and terrorism, locals struggle to get drinking water</a>

Several thousand other Afghan air force pilots and crew members are in hiding in Afghanistan, feeling abandoned by the US military, their longtime combat ally. They say they and their families are at risk of being hunted down and killed by the Taliban.

“I stood shoulder to shoulder with my American allies for five years — but now they have forgotten us,” an Afghan air force captain who piloted C-208 airplanes said by phone from a safe house in Kabul.

Several other pilots who spoke by phone from Afghanistan said they had heard nothing from the US government. But they said they were being assisted by their former military advisers, many of them volunteers in a group called Operation Sacred Promise, formed to help get Afghan air force personnel to safety.

Brig. Gen. David Hicks, a retired Air Force officer who is CEO of Operation Sacred Promise, said the group, formed in August, had received desperate messages from stranded pilots asking whether the US government had a plan to get them to safety.

“We found out that there was no plan by the US to do anything to get these folks out,” said Hicks, who once commanded the US-led air force training mission in Afghanistan.

He said: “The US has spent millions and millions on these highly educated and highly motivated individuals. Based on what they did fighting the Taliban, we think they deserve priority.”

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghan-baby-handed-to-us-soldiers-amid-chaos-at-kabul-airport-still-missing-427117" hreflang="en">Afghan baby handed to US soldiers amid chaos at Kabul airport still missing</a>

A State Department spokesperson offered no timeline on relocating Afghan pilots but said Sunday, “We are in regular communication with the government of Tajikistan, and part of those communications includes coordination in response to Afghan air force pilots.”

The spokesperson said, “The United States verified the identities of approximately 150 Afghans after gaining access to the last group in mid-October.”

The United States spent $89 billion training and equipping Afghan defense and security forces, including the Afghan air force and its elite Special Mission Wing. Many of the pilots were trained in the United States.

Some pilots and crew members and their families were evacuated with the help of the US government and military just after the Taliban takeover. But many more were unable to get out, despite attempts by their former advisers to help them.

Since mid-August, Hicks said, Operation Sacred Promise has helped evacuate about 350 Afghans. The group has vetted about 2,000 Afghan air force personnel and their relatives trying to leave the country, with about 8,000 more still to be vetted, he said.

In September, a group of Afghan pilots and crew members was evacuated from Uzbekistan with the help of the US government and Operation Sacred Promise after being detained by Uzbek authorities.

But another group of 143 Afghan air force personnel remains in detention at a sanitarium near the Tajik capital, Dushanbe. They said they were growing increasingly desperate, even though US Embassy officials in Dushanbe had recently arrived to record their biometric data as part of an effort to evacuate them.

“The morale among our colleagues here is very low,” said an Afghan air force major who flew a C-208 military plane to Tajikistan. “We are in an unknown situation, and we don’t know what will happen next to us.”

Also read |&nbsp;<a data-ctorig="https://www.wionews.com/world/wion-exclusive-life-under-taliban-they-call-women-sts-419130" data-cturl="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-element-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/world/wion-exclusive-life-under-taliban-they-call-women-sts-419130&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjwq-mH1oj0AhWRzTgGHe85CkEQFnoECAUQAg&amp;usg=AOvVaw2l6nZWyfFJjXRmuas22wzA" dir="ltr" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/wion-exclusive-life-under-taliban-they-call-women-sts-419130" target="_blank">WION exclusive: Life Under&nbsp;Taliban- 'They call women s**ts'</a>

The major and several other pilots spoke on WhatsApp audio messages recorded on smuggled cellphones hidden from guards. They said they were not allowed to leave the facility, where most cellphones had been confiscated. They survive on meager food rations and receive only basic medical care, they said.

Many have not been in touch with their families in Afghanistan, some of whom do not know whether they are still alive, they said.

“We feel abandoned, but we still have hope the US will help us,” said a major who said he had piloted numerous combat missions.

The Tajikistan Embassy in Washington did not immediately respond to email messages requesting comments.

Among those held in Tajikistan is an Afghan pilot who is pregnant and said she needed prenatal care. Her husband, also a pilot, was being held with her.

“We are living like prisoners,” she said in an audio message recorded late last month. “We are fed up. We are getting weak. I’d like to request that the US government expedite our situation here.”

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/taliban-mediating-talks-between-pakistans-tehreek-e-taliban-islamabad-report-427608" hreflang="en">Taliban mediating talks between Pakistan's Tehreek-e-Taliban, Islamabad: Report</a>

During Afghanistan’s collapse, about 25% of the Afghan air force’s aircraft were flown to Tajikistan and Uzbekistan, according to an Oct. 31 report by the Special Inspector General for Afghanistan Reconstruction. Hicks put the number at 56 to 60 aircraft. (American forces rendered unusable 80 others at the Kabul airport in late August.)

The status of the planes is uncertain. When asked in mid-August what was being done to recover the aircraft, Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin replied, “We’re focused on the airfield and getting people out safely.”

Speaking from Afghanistan, several Afghan air force pilots described moving from house to house to avoid capture by the Taliban. They said they were running out of money and did not dare look for work because they feared being discovered by Taliban officials.

An Afghan air force major who flew C-208 planes for eight years said the Taliban had confronted his relatives, demanding to know his whereabouts. Taliban fighters searched his home and interrogated his mother, said the major, who had moved with his wife and four children to a series of safe houses.

“It’s very dangerous for us here,” the major said.

Watch |&nbsp;No hope for women athletes in Afghanistan?

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/no-hope-for-women-athletes-in-afghanistan-427654/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

He said he had been unable to reach anyone in the US government or military, other than his former US Air Force adviser. “It seems we aren’t so important to them anymore,” he said.

The Taliban have said there is a general amnesty for any Afghan who served in the former government or worked with the US government or military. But several Afghan air force pilots have been killed by the Taliban this year.

“They have no good options,” Hicks said. “They’re at risk of being hunted down and killed.”

A major who piloted C-208 planes and was trained at a US Air Force base in Texas said he turned down a chance to fly to Tajikistan in August because he did not want to leave his family behind. Now he and his wife and their seven children are in hiding, low on money and food.

“Our life gets worse day by day,” the major said. “We can’t stay in one place. We are always hiding — even our relatives don’t know where we are.”

Hicks said he feared the pilots and crew members in Afghanistan would soon run out of money and food, and possibly lose what freedom they have left.

“There’s no place for them to hide inside Afghanistan,” he said. “We have to realize that it’s about to be a very dark winter for these people.”

As Kabul was falling to the Taliban in August, the young Afghan air force pilot flew his PC-12 turboprop from Afghanistan to neighbouring Tajikistan to escape. Like other Afghan officers who fled in dozens of military aircraft to Tajikistan and Uzbekistan, the pilot had faith that his American military partners would rescue him.

As Kabul was falling to the Taliban in August, the young Afghan air force pilot flew his PC-12 turboprop from Afghanistan to neighbouring Tajikistan to escape. Like other Afghan officers who fled in dozens of military aircraft to Tajikistan and Uzbekistan, the pilot had faith that his American military partners would rescue him. “We believed in the US military and government — that they would help us and get us out of this situation,” said the pilot, a lieutenant, who, like other pilots in this article, spoke on the condition of anonymity because of security concerns. The lieutenant is among 143 Afghan pilots and crew members now detained by Tajik authorities. They are English speakers trained by the US Air Force, and they are counting on the US government or military to evacuate them and also to help evacuate their families back home in Afghanistan. Also read | Afghan crisis: Amid internal conflict and terrorism, locals struggle to get drinking water Several thousand other Afghan air force pilots and crew members are in hiding in Afghanistan, feeling abandoned by the US military, their longtime combat ally. They say they and their families are at risk of being hunted down and killed by the Taliban. “I stood shoulder to shoulder with my American allies for five years — but now they have forgotten us,” an Afghan air force captain who piloted C-208 airplanes said by phone from a safe house in Kabul. Several other pilots who spoke by phone from Afghanistan said they had heard nothing from the US government. But they said they were being assisted by their former military advisers, many of them volunteers in a group called Operation Sacred Promise, formed to help get Afghan air force personnel to safety. Brig. Gen. David Hicks, a retired Air Force officer who is CEO of Operation Sacred Promise, said the group, formed in August, had received desperate messages from stranded pilots asking whether the US government had a plan to get them to safety. “We found out that there was no plan by the US to do anything to get these folks out,” said Hicks, who once commanded the US-led air force training mission in Afghanistan. He said: “The US has spent millions and millions on these highly educated and highly motivated individuals. Based on what they did fighting the Taliban, we think they deserve priority.” Also read | Afghan baby handed to US soldiers amid chaos at Kabul airport still missing A State Department spokesperson offered no timeline on relocating Afghan pilots but said Sunday, “We are in regular communication with the government of Tajikistan, and part of those communications includes coordination in response to Afghan air force pilots.” The spokesperson said, “The United States verified the identities of approximately 150 Afghans after gaining access to the last group in mid-October.” The United States spent $89 billion training and equipping Afghan defense and security forces, including the Afghan air force and its elite Special Mission Wing. Many of the pilots were trained in the United States. Some pilots and crew members and their families were evacuated with the help of the US government and military just after the Taliban takeover. But many more were unable to get out, despite attempts by their former advisers to help them. Since mid-August, Hicks said, Operation Sacred Promise has helped evacuate about 350 Afghans. The group has vetted about 2,000 Afghan air force personnel and their relatives trying to leave the country, with about 8,000 more still to be vetted, he said. In September, a group of Afghan pilots and crew members was evacuated from Uzbekistan with the help of the US government and Operation Sacred Promise after being detained by Uzbek authorities. But another group of 143 Afghan air force personnel remains in detention at a sanitarium near the Tajik capital, Dushanbe. They said they were growing increasingly desperate, even though US Embassy officials in Dushanbe had recently arrived to record their biometric data as part of an effort to evacuate them. “The morale among our colleagues here is very low,” said an Afghan air force major who flew a C-208 military plane to Tajikistan. “We are in an unknown situation, and we don’t know what will happen next to us.” Also read | WION exclusive: Life Under Taliban- 'They call women s**ts' The major and several other pilots spoke on WhatsApp audio messages recorded on smuggled cellphones hidden from guards. They said they were not allowed to leave the facility, where most cellphones had been confiscated. They survive on meager food rations and receive only basic medical care, they said. Many have not been in touch with their families in Afghanistan, some of whom do not know whether they are still alive, they said. “We feel abandoned, but we still have hope the US will help us,” said a major who said he had piloted numerous combat missions. The Tajikistan Embassy in Washington did not immediately respond to email messages requesting comments. Among those held in Tajikistan is an Afghan pilot who is pregnant and said she needed prenatal care. Her husband, also a pilot, was being held with her. “We are living like prisoners,” she said in an audio message recorded late last month. “We are fed up. We are getting weak. I’d like to request that the US government expedite our situation here.” Also read | Taliban mediating talks between Pakistan's Tehreek-e-Taliban, Islamabad: Report During Afghanistan’s collapse, about 25% of the Afghan air force’s aircraft were flown to Tajikistan and Uzbekistan, according to an Oct. 31 report by the Special Inspector General for Afghanistan Reconstruction. Hicks put the number at 56 to 60 aircraft. (American forces rendered unusable 80 others at the Kabul airport in late August.) The status of the planes is uncertain. When asked in mid-August what was being done to recover the aircraft, Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin replied, “We’re focused on the airfield and getting people out safely.” Speaking from Afghanistan, several Afghan air force pilots described moving from house to house to avoid capture by the Taliban. They said they were running out of money and did not dare look for work because they feared being discovered by Taliban officials. An Afghan air force major who flew C-208 planes for eight years said the Taliban had confronted his relatives, demanding to know his whereabouts. Taliban fighters searched his home and interrogated his mother, said the major, who had moved with his wife and four children to a series of safe houses. “It’s very dangerous for us here,” the major said. Watch | No hope for women athletes in Afghanistan? He said he had been unable to reach anyone in the US government or military, other than his former US Air Force adviser. “It seems we aren’t so important to them anymore,” he said. The Taliban have said there is a general amnesty for any Afghan who served in the former government or worked with the US government or military. But several Afghan air force pilots have been killed by the Taliban this year. “They have no good options,” Hicks said. “They’re at risk of being hunted down and killed.” A major who piloted C-208 planes and was trained at a US Air Force base in Texas said he turned down a chance to fly to Tajikistan in August because he did not want to leave his family behind. Now he and his wife and their seven children are in hiding, low on money and food. “Our life gets worse day by day,” the major said. “We can’t stay in one place. We are always hiding — even our relatives don’t know where we are.” Hicks said he feared the pilots and crew members in Afghanistan would soon run out of money and food, and possibly lose what freedom they have left. “There’s no place for them to hide inside Afghanistan,” he said. “We have to realize that it’s about to be a very dark winter for these people.”

Afghan military pilots, on the run, feel abandoned by US

In what is being termed as the first nationwide campaign in three years, the World Health Organization and the United Nations children's agency have started a polio vaccination campaign in Afghanistan in an attempt to fight the disease.&nbsp;

As per WHO, the campaign is aimed at reaching over 3 million children and has received Taliban backing. It would allow teams to reach children in areas which were inaccessible earlier. According to WHO figures compiled before the Taliban took over Afghanistan, there was one reported case of the one wild poliovirus type 1 (WPV1) in Afghanistan in 2021, compared with 56 in 2020.

Ahmed Al Mandhari, WHO Regional Director for the Eastern Mediterranean, in a statement said, "The urgency with which the Taliban leadership wants the polio campaign to proceed demonstrates a joint commitment to maintain the health system and restart essential immunisations to avert further outbreaks of preventable diseases."&nbsp;

National Emergency Operations Coordinator for the polio programme at Afghanistan's health ministry, Naikwali Shah Momim has highlighted that more training is needed for teams in remote areas. Therefore, the programme would initially start in places such as Kabul.

Afghanistan is one of the last countries in the world with endemic polio. The disease has been virtually eliminated globally through a decades-long inoculation drive.&nbsp;

Several polio workers were killed by gunmen in eastern Afghanistan this year. However, it is not yet clear who was behind the attacks.

Meanwhile, the nation has been struggling to battle poverty as people fear the approach of winter. Various financial institutions suspended their engagement with the country until there was clarity within the international community on the recognition of the government led by the Taliban.

Currently, banks are running out of money, civil servants have not been paid and food prices have surged.&nbsp;

The IMF said that Afghanistan's economy was set to contract up to 30 per cent this year. "Afghanistan is in need of revival on all fronts, and development is the top priority," said Wang.

(With inputs from agencies)

In what is being termed as the first nationwide campaign in three years, the World Health Organization and the United Nations children's agency have started a polio vaccination campaign in Afghanistan in an attempt to fight the disease.

In what is being termed as the first nationwide campaign in three years, the World Health Organization and the United Nations children's agency have started a polio vaccination campaign in Afghanistan in an attempt to fight the disease. As per WHO, the campaign is aimed at reaching over 3 million children and has received Taliban backing. It would allow teams to reach children in areas which were inaccessible earlier. According to WHO figures compiled before the Taliban took over Afghanistan, there was one reported case of the one wild poliovirus type 1 (WPV1) in Afghanistan in 2021, compared with 56 in 2020. Ahmed Al Mandhari, WHO Regional Director for the Eastern Mediterranean, in a statement said, "The urgency with which the Taliban leadership wants the polio campaign to proceed demonstrates a joint commitment to maintain the health system and restart essential immunisations to avert further outbreaks of preventable diseases." National Emergency Operations Coordinator for the polio programme at Afghanistan's health ministry, Naikwali Shah Momim has highlighted that more training is needed for teams in remote areas. Therefore, the programme would initially start in places such as Kabul. Afghanistan is one of the last countries in the world with endemic polio. The disease has been virtually eliminated globally through a decades-long inoculation drive. Several polio workers were killed by gunmen in eastern Afghanistan this year. However, it is not yet clear who was behind the attacks. Meanwhile, the nation has been struggling to battle poverty as people fear the approach of winter. Various financial institutions suspended their engagement with the country until there was clarity within the international community on the recognition of the government led by the Taliban. Currently, banks are running out of money, civil servants have not been paid and food prices have surged. The IMF said that Afghanistan's economy was set to contract up to 30 per cent this year. "Afghanistan is in need of revival on all fronts, and development is the top priority," said Wang. (With inputs from agencies)

'A joint commitment': WHO, UNICEF launch polio vaccine campaign in Afghanistan

It has been almost three months since the Taliban took control of Afghanistan. The group has promised to bring prosperity to the people, but women in the country are still worried about their rights. WION's Anas Mallick spoke to the Afghan National Olympic Committee spokesperson on the Taliban's policy of sports for women.

No hope for women athletes in Afghanistan?

afghanistan-0

Afghanistan, News on Afghanistan, stories on Afghanistan, articles on Afghanistan, Afghanistan stories at Wion, Afghanistan news, Afghanistan latest news

afghanistan 0